XN000022-1994-12-28 — Page 3

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The penalty imposed on offenders publishing indecent articles to minors had significantly increased as a result of the courts being made aware of the community's wish to see heavier penalties imposed on Control of Obscene and Indecent Articles Ordinance (COIAO) offenders.

In a recent case, a fine of $15,000 was imposed as against the norm of several hundred dollars in the past.

In the first 10 months of this year, the Government has taken out a total of 561 prosecutions against offences under the ordinance and has obtained a total of 312 convictions. This compares with the figures of 329 prosecutions and 234 convictions for the whole year of 1993.

"As regards the publication of indecent articles without a clear and conspicuous notice, we have taken out a total of 193 prosecutions during the first 10 months of 1994. The highest penalty imposed was $12,000," Mr So said.

efforts.

He said the Government had also stepped up publicity and education

TELA has sent several rounds of circular letters to newspaper vendors to remind them that selling indecent articles to juveniles is an offence under the COIAO. A total of 81 pieces of general advice and 28 warnings have been given out to newspaper vendors.

Leaflets have also been distributed by TELA to schools and youth centres publicising and explaining that indecent articles are harmful.

Radio Announcement in the Public Interest (API) and TV Announcement in the Public Interest are also used to publicise the ordinance.

Furthermore, a 24-hour hotline is operated by TELA. So far, more than 120 complaints have been received which led to 30 prosecutions with 23 convictions.

Mr So further said an inter-departmental working group comprising representatives of the Recreation and Culture Branch, Television and Entertainment Licensing Authority, Attorney General's Chambers, Urban Services Department, Regional Services Department and the Police was considering measures to tighten the law to more effectively tackle the problem.